Darren Barrett was the 1997 Winner of the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition and is widely heralded as the next important trumpeter/composer to come on the scene. He is currently a member of the Jackie McLean Quintet as well as leader of his own quintet. Darren has also performed and or recorded with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Jimmy Heath, Slide Hampton and Antonio Hart. First One Up is Darren Barrett’s debut recording as a leader. The album was produced by the legendary Donald Byrd who is Darren’s mentor and one of his primary influences.

The members of his quintet are pianist Aaron Goldberg, tenor saxophonist Jimmy Greene, bassist Reuben Rogers and drummer John Lamkin who are regarded as among the finest of the new generation of jazz musicians. Alto sax great, Kenny Garrett is featured on several tracks including two takes of the memorable title track First One Up. It is recommended that the listener fasten their seat belt before listening to this recording as it smokes from start to finish. -[Jacarre | Customer Review | Amazon.com]- Continue reading →